Beaumont Expungement Lawyer

Beaumont Expungement Attorney

Having a criminal record can severely impact your life, even after you have served your immediate consequences. A criminal record can affect a person’s ability to get a job or housing, among other things. Luckily, in Texas, there are some avenues a person can take to get their record expunged and obtain a fresh start. A Beaumont expungement lawyer can help you through the expungement process and toward a greater future.

Why Renick Law Firm, PLLC?

At Renick Law Firm, PLLC, we know that a criminal record can significantly affect your life. We are dedicated to helping you achieve the fresh start you deserve. We can look over the details of your convictions and inform you of your options. If you are eligible for expungement, we can help you through the process so you don’t have to do it alone.

We know the law can be complex and confusing and we can make it clear to you so you are aware of your rights and options under the law. We strive to provide you with the legal guidance you need so you can focus on your future with peace of mind.

What Is Expungement?

In Texas, the act of expunging a criminal record is referred to as “expunction.” It is a legal process that allows individuals with criminal records to have their records erased or sealed. This removes it from public access. Individuals looking to have their records expunged in Beaumont, Texas will request an expunction order.

An expunction order will instruct those who have the record to destroy it. If there are any references to it, it will be ordered to be removed. The offender is allowed to deny its existence except in instances where they are under oath and asked about it. Expunction is not to be confused with an order of nondisclosure.

An order of nondisclosure is an order that will seal the record. This is different from destroying it. While sealed records are hidden from public access, the individual may have to disclose this information in certain situations, such as applying for jobs in law enforcement or education. However, except in some of these instances where the knowledge of this information would be necessary or appropriate, an applicant may not be required to reveal this information.

Who Is Eligible for Expunction?

Because expunction requires a record to be completely erased, every criminal conviction is not eligible for it. Generally speaking, a person may be able to have their record erased if they were arrested and/or charged but were not convicted through either a pardon or acquittal. An arrest, whether a felony or misdemeanor, may be able to be expunged under the following circumstances:

• The defendant was acquitted.
• The defendant was convicted, but was later proven to be innocent.
• The defendant was convicted, but was later pardoned. Being pardoned means that you are forgiven for the crime and the consequences of it, but it does not necessarily mean that it is removed from your record. An example of this would be the change in marijuana laws. When marijuana became legal for recreational use, many who were convicted of marijuana use were pardoned.
• The defendant was charged, but the case was later dismissed.
• The defendant was arrested and, in some cases, charged, but the statute of limitations or waiting period has passed.

There are many exceptions when it comes to having a record expunged. A criminal defense attorney can look at your record and determine if you are eligible for an expunction.

How a Beaumont, Texas Expungement Lawyer Can Help?

The laws on expunction can be confusing and complex. The expunction process takes steps to have your record removed. An attorney can help you through this process and help you understand your options for expunction. They can assist with the following:

• Assess your case and determine if you’re eligible for expunction.
• Prepare the necessary paperwork and send petitions to the court on your behalf.
• Represent you in court, advocating for you in front of the judge.
• Negotiate with prosecutors to reach an agreement, if necessary.
• Provide you with legal counsel so you understand your rights, options, and responsibilities.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Record Expunged in Texas?

A: The cost of getting a record expunged in Texas will depend on a number of factors. Requests for expunction come with a filing fee, which will vary depending on the county you file in. In addition to this, you will have to take into account any fees your attorney charges, which will vary depending on the attorney and the scope of work they have to do.

Q: Do I Need a Lawyer to Expunge My Record in Texas?

A: You do not need a lawyer to expunge your record in Texas as it is not required by law. However, it is recommended that you seek the legal counsel of an attorney as they are well-versed in the law and can ensure that you have everything you need for the expungement process, as well as advocating for you in court, if needed.

Q: What Cannot Be Expunged in Texas?

A: In Texas, certain situations cannot be expunged. For starters, all convictions are generally exempt from the possibility of expunction unless the person was later proven to be innocent. An alternative option is to seek an order of nondisclosure, which will seal your record, but these also have limitations. For instance, convictions for violent crimes and sexual assault are typically ineligible for both expunction and obtaining an order of nondisclosure.

Q: How Long Does It Take for an Expungement to Come Off Your Record in Texas?

A: The length of time it takes for an expungement to come off your record in Texas depends on a variety of factors. The court will need to review the case and schedule a hearing which is dependent on the caseload and priorities of the court at the time. If expunction is granted, the individual agencies that hold the record will also need to remove the records, which depends on their efficiency at the time. If a case is complex, it may take longer.

Contact Renick Law Firm, PLLC

If you have been charged with a crime and are seeking expunction, Renick Law Firm, PLLC can review your case and help you with next steps. Contact us today to speak with a representative.